New research from RMIT University and the University of Melbourne has uncovered a surprising phenomenon in fluid dynamics: water moving across surfaces generates an electrical charge up to ten times greater than previously understood. This discovery, led by Dr Joe Berry, Dr Peter Sherrell, and Professor Amanda Ellis, offers new insights into the interaction between liquids and surfaces, with potential applications for energy storage, climate action, and safety in fuel-handling systems.
Scientific breakthrough in liquid-surface interactions
The study reveals that when water droplets encounter obstacles such as tiny bumps or rough patches, they experience a build-up of force before slipping past creating an irreversible charge at the interface. Unlike previously thought, charge is generated not only when a liquid dries but also upon initial contact with the surface, at a significantly higher magnitude.
Dr Sherrell, a researcher at RMIT’s School of Science, explains that this discovery challenges previous assumptions about how charge forms in liquid interactions. “Our findings show that charge can be created at the moment the liquid first touches the surface, rather than just when it evaporates.”
Implications for energy and sustainability
This enhanced understanding of charge generation has major implications for sustainability and future technological applications. One key concern is the build-up of charge inside fuel storage systems, where it could pose safety risks. As industries transition to renewable fuels, this knowledge could help design safer, charge-mitigating materials.
Additionally, the research opens up new possibilities for harnessing ambient energy in energy storage systems. By optimising surface materials, it may become possible to enhance the efficiency of charge transfer in batteries and sustainable energy technologies, contributing to progress towards the global goals.
Future research and industry applications
The research team conducted their experiments using polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), the material commonly known as Teflon, which does not conduct electricity. Using high-speed cameras and advanced charge measurement techniques, they observed charge accumulation with unprecedented accuracy.
Lead researcher Shuaijia Chen found that the initial contact of water with PTFE created the most significant charge shift, reaching up to 4.1 nanocoulombs (nC). While this may seem small, its potential impact on science and engineering is substantial.
The next phase of research will explore different liquids and surface materials to determine how the stick-slip effect influences other fluid-handling systems. The team aims to collaborate with industry partners to develop materials that either enhance or suppress charge accumulation, depending on application needs.
This breakthrough highlights the role of global society in advancing scientific research for a more sustainable future. By fostering collaboration between institutions and industries, such discoveries can drive progress towards cleaner energy, economic equality, and safer industrial practices.
Understanding fundamental fluid dynamics will contribute to innovations in environmental protection and peace and justice, ensuring that new technologies align with the principles of the SDGs and long-term world changes.
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